8 Best Camping String Lights – (Reviews & Buying Guide 2020)

There is something about lights at night that creates such a peaceful and ambient environment. One that makes you want to go on and on with your indulgence. Well, it takes more than the amber from a campfire or the moonlight. Sometimes you have to create your own ambiance while camping outdoors. Just to supplement the natural light from the moon or the little flickers from the bonfire. What better way to do this than with a set of string lights? Today, the market is full of options when it comes to string lights. But, this doesn’t mean it is easy to find a perfect one for you. It is easy to come by a knockoff or one that’s just not good enough for you. Well, worry not, we’re here to help.

We’ll take you through a journey of discovering the best camping string light for your needs. Besides, in case you don’t find a good enough option from our camping string light reviews, we believe our buying guide will help you make the right buying decision. Read on!

Quick Recommendations

• 4.7 Customer Rating
• Brightech Ambience Pro String Lights

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• 4.5 Customer Rating
• SUNAPEX 48ft Solar String Lights

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• 4.4 Customer Rating
• LE LED Globe Battery String Lights

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We shall be reviewing the following camping string lights:

Best Camping String Light Reviews (Newest Models)

1. Sunapex 48-ft. Solar String Lights Outdoor

Number of Bulbs: 15
String Length: 48 feet
Power Source: Solar

This is a 48-ft. string light from Sunapex that boasts of a reliable solar power source. It is an all-weather kind of string light as it features strong and flexible strands made from rubber. You no longer have to worry about the LED bulbs shattering because unlike their traditional counterparts they are made of plastic. Their waterproof nature means you can use them in any kind of weather. What is more, the solar panel still functions even in the absence of sunlight. On a full charge, the solar panel illuminates the LED bulbs for 8 hrs. And, that is not even the best part. This set produces four different lighting modes and turns on at sunset and off at sunrise automatically. This 48-ft. package comes with 15 bulbs that are easy to setup.

2. Brightech Ambience Pro Camping Lights

Number of Bulbs: 10
String Length: 27 feet
Power Source: USB source

These are 27-ft. camping string lights that come with 10 shatterproof LED bulbs. They are built to withstand the rugged nature of outdoor camping as you can tell from the tough strands that are not only waterproof but also resistant to other weather elements. The best part about these string lights is that they do not rely on power outlets to function. All you need is a regular USB port and you are good to go. Plugin the strings in your phone charging USB outlet and have your entire tent sufficiently lit.

3. Sunlitec Solar String Lights Waterproof LED

Number of Bulbs: 25
String Length: 27 feet
Power Source: solar and rechargeable battery

The Sunlitec solar string lights are waterproof LED bulbs positioned 10 in. apart on a 27-ft. firm and durable strand. It comes with 25 bulbs, 1 watt each with a 3000K warm white light for the perfect ambiance. The best part is that this set has two power options. You can charge either through USB or solar panels. It features a 4500mAh battery that can light up all the 25 bulbs for 8 hrs. straight when fully charged. As far as installation is concerned, the strand is flexible and durable enough thus giving you the peace of mind to go about installation without the fear of breaking or damaging stuff.

4. Lemontec Solar String Lights

Number of Bulbs: 30
String Length: 20 feet
Power Source: solar

This set features a solar-powered 1000mAh battery that lights 30 LED bulbs for up to 10 hrs. on a full charge. Each of the 30 bulbs occupies a position 20cm apart and the entire cable is 20 ft. in length. What is more, you do not need any special skills to install this set of string lights. It is waterproof meaning you can leave it in the pouring rain without risking damage. As far as ease of use is concerned, the Lemontec Solar String Lights are very easy to use. They come with two switches. One for powering it on and off and the other one for changing the lighting mode.

5. Coleman LED String Lights

Number of Bulbs: 10
String Length: 80 inches
Power Source: 3 AA batteries

This is a simple set of string lights from Coleman consisting of 10 tiny LED lanterns stringed together on an 80-in. strand. It is one of the simplest designs, which makes it easy to set up. Also, the whole set up is quite lightweight. It draws power from 3 AA batteries. So, it has a total weight of 0.79 lbs. with the batteries included. This makes the Coleman LED String Lights the right choice for a backpacker.

6. Metaku Globe String Lights Fairy Lights

Number of Bulbs: 80
String Length: 33 feet
Power Source: 3 AA batteries

The Metaku Globe String Lights Fairy Lights come in a set of 80 LED bulbs put together on a 33-ft. strand. The lights have 8 modes of dimmable variants and to make it even more interesting, it comes with remote control. You can set up the lights outdoors thanks to the fact that the bulbs are waterproof with an IP67 rating. The setup uses 3 AA batteries as a power source for the bulbs. The only challenge is that you have to buy the batteries separately although they are not expensive. The fact that the lights are waterproof makes the Metaku Globe String Lights Fairy Lights the best option for outdoor campgrounds that lack power outlets.

7. LE Globe String Lights, Battery Powered

Number of Bulbs: 50
String Length: 16.4 feet
Power Source: 3 AA batteries

This is another simplistic design of a camping string light ideal for both indoor and outdoor camping. The bulbs are set on a 5m strand and they are powered by 3 AA batteries although they do not come with the package. If you intend to set up this string light in the outdoors, you do not have to worry because it has a water resistance rating of IP44, which means it can withstand minor water splashes. Additionally, the string lights come with remote control, which makes it even more convenient to operate from any position.

8. ALOVECO LED String Lights

Number of Bulbs: 50
String Length: 18 feet
Power Source: 3 AA batteries

This set of string lights comes with a set of 50 waterproof light bulbs put together on an 18-ft. string. It is easy to use since all you need is a set of 3 AA batteries. This enhances the portability of the strings lights making them easy to carry to any outdoor beach setting. What is more, the strings lights come with remote control. This way, you get to control it from anywhere. With the remote control, you can power it on and off and also change the lighting from one mode to another as it comes in 8 different modes. Also regarding the modes, the remote allows you to set an automatic timer whereby the lights stay on for 6 hrs. then off for 18 hrs.

What are the Camping String Lights?

These are small LED light bulbs put together on a strand to provide a decorative effect in any indoor or outdoor setting. They are common in picnics, overnight beach parties, and festival celebrations. Their small designs and portability make them the ideal lighting options for outdoor campers.

Types of Outdoor String Lights

Back then, string lights were only used for decoration. Fast forward to the 21st century and today you can find different types of string lights. In this section, we shall be highlighting the different types of camping string lights as well as the advantages and disadvantages of each. The following are the main types of string lights:

1. Solar Powered String Lights

   These are the type of string lights that use the sun as the source of energy. They comprise of a solar panel with a built-in battery connected to the light bulbs usually stringed together on a strand. On exposure to direct sunlight, the solar panel charges the battery, which in turn powers the light bulbs. On a full charge, the battery could fuel the lights for up to 10 hrs. The 48-ft. Solar String Lights Outdoor are good examples of solar-powered string lights.

   • Advantages of a solar-powered string light

     • It is cheap as the user does not incur any electricity costs since the sun is readily available
     • Solar-powered string lights are efficient in the sense that they run for more hrs. before running out

   • Disadvantages of solar powered string lights

     • The main disadvantage of solar powered string lights is their reliance on solar energy. This means that in the event of cloudy weather, the lights will be unusable

2. Battery-powered string lights

   These are the types of string lights that use removable batteries (usually AA batteries) to power the light bulbs. They are the most suitable especially for outdoor camping where campers require portability. More often than not, battery-powered string lights use at least three batteries, which need replacement from time to time. Example of battery-powered string lights include the LE Globe String Lights and the Metaku Globe String Lights Fairy Lights

   • Advantages of battery-powered string lights

     • The main advantage of battery-powered string lights is the fact that they offer great portability. Once set up you do not need any cabling to link it to a power source. So, you can place them at any position in the outdoors
     • The batteries that power these types of string lights are cheap and easily available at convenience stores

   • Disadvantages of battery-powered string lights

     • Most battery-powered string lights do not come with the batteries in the package. The fact that you have to buy the batteries separately makes it a little more expensive and less convenient
     • The batteries are not rechargeable and replacements cost a lot in the long run

3. USB-Powered String lights

   This is the type of string light that is powered through a USB power source. The most common USB power source available to an outdoor camper would be the phone charging power bank. Some power banks are quite efficient with ratings of above 20,000mAh. This is enough to charge your phone as well as powering your outdoor string lights. Examples of USB powered string light are the Brightech Ambience Pro Camping Lights.

   • Advantages of USB powered string lights

     • This type of string light is portable and easy to use
     • Does not require special skills to set up

   • Disadvantages of USB powered string lights

     • Relies on the electric outlet to keep the USB power source charged

4. Dual-Powered String Lights

   These are the string lights that use both electric and solar power as sources of energy. More often than not, they come with a solar panel and charging port. These string lights are the most convenient as they utilize both solar and electric energy for power. This means that in the absence of solar energy, one can still use the lights by connecting them to electric sources. The only challenge comes in when both electric and solar energy sources are unavailable, which is quite unlikely. An example of this type of outdoor string light is the Sunlitec Solar String Lights Waterproof LED.

   • Advantages of Dual-powered string lights

     • These outdoor string lights utilize both USB and solar charging options
     • It is easy to use as no technical skills are required
     • Ideal for outdoor camping in both established campground and natural site

   • Disadvantages of USB powered string lights

     • This type of string light can be useless in the event that both solar energy and electricity are absent although this is quite unlikely

Buying Guide: What to Look for When Buying a Set of String Lights

The process of buying a set of string lights is no longer as simple as it used to be back in the days. Today, there are lots of alternatives, variations, and different types of the same thing and this can be a little overwhelming for both a newbie and an expert. We understand this and that is why we feel the need to share some tips on how you can get yourself the right set of camping string lights. We shall be highlighting the most important factors that one needs to put into consideration before buying string lights. The following factors should be put into consideration.

The Top 5 Things to Consider When Buying a Camping String Lights

1. Source of Power

   This refers to the source of power to light up the bulbs. This decision should be guided by the kind of camping you intend to explore. If you are going to be camping in an established site, then you will not have trouble finding an electric outlet. In this case, it would be perfectly fine to buy an electric string light just so you can plug it into one of the outlets at the campsite and have the lights come to life.

   If on the other hand, you are going for an outdoor camp in a wild location with no electric outlets, then you should buy a solar-powered, battery-powered, or USB powered string light. These sources of power will be found in the wild especially solar energy. Except of course if it’s the winter and the weather is cloudy. That’s when you can opt for USB or battery sources of power.

   The moment you settle of a specific source of power, ensure you put into consideration the cost implications as well as the ease of obtaining that source. For solar energy, availability usually depends on the weather. So, take the time to find out the kind of weather in the area you intend to visit for your camping. Establish the behavior of the sun to know if you can rely on it to power your string lights. As for the batteries, be sure you will be willing to spend on all the replacements you will be needing from time to time.

   If you are going to be using a USB source of power, be sure to check the power consumption of the string lights and the capability of the USB source to power them. You do not want to overwhelm your USB power source with too much load coming from the light bulbs. Luckily, the majority of the light bulbs are quite energy-saving so this won’t be a problem.

2. Type and Number of Light Bulbs

   The type of bulb refers to the type of diode and the material used for the bulb. LED bulbs are more common because they are long-lasting and efficient in a way that helps with saving energy. As for the material of the bulb, the outdoor bulbs are better off if they are shatterproof. Most manufacturers make bulbs with plastic because it does not shatter and one doesn’t need to be too careful to avoid breakages. Whether you are planning for an outdoor or indoor camp, it is wiser to buy a shatterproof bulb as you never know what could happen. Shatterproof bulbs are more durable and this guarantees a longer life thus giving you the value for your money.

3. Length of the Strand

   The length of the strand is a major concern when it comes to buying a set of camping string lights. This is because it determines the area your lights will cover once the installation is done. Shorter light strands will be a limitation regardless of whether you are covering a small area or a large one. If you are lucky enough to get your hands on a longer strand, remember that the longer the string, the more the power consumption requirements will be. It is probably a good idea to stick to what the manufacturer recommends when it comes to strand length unless if you have access to an electric power source.

   Cost considerations should also guide your choice of string length. This is because longer strings will obviously cost more than their shorter counterparts. In this case, just buy as much string length as you will require. To do this, perform some measurements of the area you hope to cover with the string lights and make your purchases based on these measurements. This way, you will avoid making any extra purchases that would not be necessary for the long run.

4. Lighting Modes and Effects

   This is an additional feature that helps to make the overall experience better for you and your colleagues. Most manufacturers nowadays make string lights with more than three lighting modes. This way, you get to change lighting effects depending on the mood you want to achieve.

   In addition to lighting effects, other features include the inclusion of remote control. The remote control helps to manage the settings of the string lights conveniently. You can imagine how tiring it would be if you were to go up the control center every time you wanted to change the lighting effects or turn the lights on and off. Other manufacturers include an automatic timer that turns the string lights on and off depending on the time of day. If you feel that these features could make your experience better, then do not hesitate to look them up when buying a set of string lights.

5. Durability and Weather Resistance

   This refers to the string lights’ ability to withstand the different weather elements as well as general wear and tear. An ideal string light should have tough strands and shatterproof bulbs. Additionally, it should be made from materials that can withstand different weather conditions. For instance, a waterproof light bulb will mean that you won’t have to disassemble the string lights on a rainy day. Light bulbs with waterproofing ratings of IP67 and above perform really well even under heavy rainfall. Apart from being waterproof, the materials should also be heat-resistant enough to brave the scorching sun on a sunny day.

Ways to Use String Lights at the Campsite

There are so many ways you can put your string lights to use at the campsite. Let us go through some of the available options.

• Strip Lighting:
  This method involves arranging LED lights in a waterproof strip/film. You will have to buy string lights that come with a large number of small bulbs. Preferably, get the waterproof LED light bulbs. Since these bulbs are cheaper and brighter, the LED strip will be a cost-effective method of lighting the camping area.
• Candle Lantern:
  This is one of the best and most effective ways to use your string lights at the camp. All you need to do is hang the lantern at the top of the tent. This ensures enough light illuminates the rest of the tent. Apart from ensuring the tent is well lit with this kind of set up, it is also a great way to warm up the tent.
• Light Ropes:
  This involves taking string lights whose design looks like a rope that you can tie on just about anything at the camp. Ideally, you can wrap a light rope around the top of the tent ceiling. Alternatively, you can tie them around tables and seats. The best type of string lights for this kind of use would be the USB or battery-powered lights.
• Glowing Sticks:
  If you are camping with a group of people that include kids, then you might want to consider having glowing sticks at strategic locations around the camping ground. Glowing sticks can also come in handy in case you want to bookmark dangerous places or areas that you feel should be out of bounds.
• Flashlights:
  You are going to need camping flashlights to move from one point to another around the campsite. Instead of buying a separate flashlight, you can make use of string lights to come up with a nice and unique flashlight. To achieve this, you will need to take the bright LED light bulbs.
• Traditional Lanterns:
  If you do not intend to light a campfire, then this can be a great alternative for you. However, you will need a highly portable string light. Battery-powered string lights happen to be the best option when it comes to setting up lanterns to play the role of a campfire. If you place the camping lantern at the center of the tent, it will illuminate the entire space.
• Use string lights to make a headlamp:
  Survivalists would be the best advocates for this kind of use. Headlamps are ideal for those tasks that require both of your hands. If you are chopping wood or lighting a fire ore preparing food in a poorly lit area at the campsite, then you will need a headlamp. Instead of buying a standalone camping headlamp, why not improvise one with a set of string lights? This will be a great way to put your string lights into various uses other than for decorative purposes.

Frequently Asked Questions

The following are the questions that most customers ask about camping string lights.

• Q: Which types of camping string lights exist?
  A: The main types of string lights are solar, electric, battery, and dual-powered string lights.
• Q: Which is the right type of camping string lights to buy?
  A: The type of camping string lights to buy depends on the campground you intend to visit. If you are planning to visit an outdoor with no established facilities, then you will need to go with either solar or battery powered string lights.
• Q: What is the best length of a strand for a camping light?
  A: The length of the strand will depend on the size of the area you intend to cover. If you are planning to cover the inside of a small tent, then a short string of 10 to 15 feet will be sufficient.

Best Camping String Lights Comparison Chart

Wrap up

String lights create ambiance in picnics and during festival occasions. Holiday festivals are among the festivals during which string lights are put into use. Buying a new set is hard if you don’t know what to look for and this does not only apply to newbies. It is not surprising at all that even experts sometimes struggle to find a good set of camping string lights. Well, if you have read this piece word by word, then we believe you are in a much better position to make the right buying decision. String lights not only light up the room but also play the role of contributing to aesthetics and ambiance. However, it still pays to put in some extra effort and get creative with the setup of a string light. Our article gets you started on a journey to experience the best of what camping string lights can offer.